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The word “sitting ducks” comes to mind, but I know we are all sitting tight and waiting for the dust to settle or not to even begin thinking or acting …So it is all hush hush right?

On December 10, 2025, Australia will enforce one of the boldest moves in digital safety history: social media platforms will be banned for children under 16. This is not  just a headline—it’s a wake-up call for educators, parents, tech companies, and governments worldwide.  

Why? Because this decision signals a global shift toward age assurance, mental health protection, and digital wellbeing. And while the world debates and “chills”, Australia is acts. So, what should the rest of us be doing? 

For Educators it is TIME To Prepare Your Classrooms. 

Schools are no longer just academic spaces—they are digital ecosystems. As platforms tighten age restrictions, educators must: 

• Integrate digital wellbeing and online safety into the curriculum. 

• Offer safe alternatives for learning and collaboration. 

• Partner with organisations like Eveminet to train teachers and students on responsible tech use. 

For Parents, Brace for Change.

If Australia’s model spreads, parents everywhere will need to: 

• Talk early and often about why age restrictions exist and why it is important. 

• Set clear digital boundaries at home and external social spaces like play dates.

• Explore safe platforms and offline activities that nurture creativity and social connection. 

For Big Tech – Responsibility is Non-Negotiable 

Tech platforms must: 

• Implement robust age verification systems that inspire confidence and trust. 

• Protect privacy during verification. 

• Invest in child-friendly experiences that prioritise safety over engagement metrics. 

For Governments, they Need To Lead, Don’t Lag 

Regulators should: 

• Develop regional frameworks for age assurance. 

• Align policies with mental health and education goals. 

• Engage civil society and tech companies in collaborative solutions. 

What About Us in Kenya and Africa? 

As a Trust & Safety professionals, we believe this is our moment to – among other things:

• Start conversations with regulators, educators, and tech platforms. 

• Advocate for age-appropriate digital experiences, not just bans. 

• Build parent-school toolkits and compliance readiness programs. 

At Eveminet, we are already preparing by: 

• Expanding Whiz Kids Africa to teach digital rights and wellbeing. 

• Designing age assurance awareness modules for schools and parents. 

• Positioning ourselves as a consulting partner for compliance readiness. 

The Big Picture 

Australia’s move is not about restriction—it is  about protection and empowerment. As the world watches, let us act. Let us create ecosystems where children thrive safely online, parents feel confident, and educators lead with knowledge. 

The question is: Are we ready to start the conversation?
If you are  an educator, parent, policymaker, or tech leader, let us connect. In collaboration, we can shape Africa’s digital future.